School – Cook4Good & Urban Walk

Cook4Good

Cook4Good stands as the flagship initiative of Kids Giving Back, designed to instil a sense of generosity and community service in young individuals.

In addition to cooking, the program includes engaging educational activities that explore the causes and impacts of homelessness, deepening participants’ understanding of social issues.

Importantly, Cook4Good also supports teen mental health by giving young people the chance to do something meaningful for others – a proven way to boost wellbeing and build resilience. In a time when youth mental health is a growing concern in Australia, this program offers a positive, purpose-driven experience that helps kids feel more connected, empowered, and supported through acts of service.

Prescribing to the EAR philosophy – Education, Action, and Reflection – our core of reflection and service makes us unique.

Why teachers love it:

  • Aligns with values education, civics, and wellbeing curriculum
  • Creates a meaningful experience of contribution and compassion
  • A real hands-on experience – students get their hands dirty and their hearts full
  • It’s often a core memory moment for students

Urban Walk

Students then proceed on an Urban Walk (1.5hrs) led by a formerly homeless Rough Edges* patron, exploring the streets of Kings Cross from an insider’s perspective while sharing personal, at times confronting, stories.

The Urban Walk is interactive and engaging with age appropriate discussion taking place throughout, giving students an authentic insight into issues surrounding homelessness.

Topics may include:

  • Drug and alcohol addiction
  • Mental illness
  • Bullying
  • Prostitution
  • HIV/AIDS
  • Sleeping rough

*Rough Edges café is one of our charity partners who receives our meals.

Duration:
2.5 hours

Year Group:
Year 8 and up

Group Capacity:
Min 20. Max 60.

Cost: Cook4Good plus Urban Walk – $1,195 (up to 15 students).
For the next 15 students, book an extra Urban Walk at $520. Cook4Good component charged at $45pp thereafter.

Place:
Cook4Good: Kids Giving Back hub, Level 1, 220-232 Oxford St, Paddington 2021.
Urban Walk: 120 Darlinghurst Road, Darlinghurst.

Example Schedule

  • 9:30am – Arrive at Kids Giving Back hub (L1, 220 – 232 Oxford St Paddington). Introduction to the day’s program, wash hands, don aprons
  • 9:50am – Begin cooking meals
  • 10:50am – BYO recess/ informal discussion
  • 11:10am – Continue cooking and packaging meals
  • 12:00pm – Break for lunch – welcome to eat at Paddington Reservoir (across the road from Paddo RSL)
  • 12:45pm -Walk to St John’s Anglican church – 120 Darlinghurst Road, Darlinghurst
  • 1:15pm – Arrive and gather at Church Courtyard
  • 1:30pm – Commence Urban Walk around Darlinghurst/Kings Cross
  • 3:00pm – End